Aside from cracking down on various third-party trackers and tools, Niantic cautioned "Pokemon Go" players that cheating can result to a permanent ban. There are reports that Niantic has started warning and banning mobile modders.
Recently, a number of bot creators and developers stated that they will stop their projects and remove the source files due to legal action being commenced by the "Pokemon Go" creator against them. Previously, "Pokemon Go" players used software like Necrobot that helped them cheat while playing.
The mod would provide them huge advantages, such as locating and catching Pokemon easily, hatching eggs quickly and acquiring powerful creatures for battles and gym domination. The mods even allowed players to spoof their GPS so that they appear anywhere in the world, allowing them to catch various Pokemon without having to exit their home.
International Business Times stated that Niantic was compelled to ban several modders, as well as warn cheaters, since their activities were detrimental to the real purpose of "Pokemon Go." Different types of penalties were imposed on the game violators, such as barring them from the use of PokeStops, disallowing them to catch Pokemon or preventing them from logging in. Niantic is also expected to address hacked gyms in "Pokemon Go."
The Verge reported that Niantic posted a note on its website that outlined the various violations of its terms of service that may result to a permanent ban among modders and "Pokemon Go" players. Some of the items in the list include falsifying locations, the use of emulators, accessing "Pokemon Go" clients, unauthorized use of third-party software and using modified or unofficial software, among others. Niantic added that their goal is to provide a fair, fun and legitimate game experience for everyone. Players can also appeal to reverse a ban if Niantic made a mistake.
It is still uncertain how Niantic determines cheating activities on "Pokemon Go." Several creators of the most popular APIs in "Pokemon Go" have received cease and desist orders from Niantic. Several third-party trackers and tools have also been shut down. More updates and details on "Pokemon Go" are expected soon.
